Area 51

The basics

The Homey Airport base has been around since the 1950s, but it wasn't until 2013 that the US government acknowledged its existence as an Air Force training range. The base is the testing facility for planes, such as the U-2 and the SR-71. Visitors cannot access, or even get close to the base, but the surrounding area still attracts a lot of visitors.

You can’t take Area 51 tours or buy Area 51 tickets. However, to see the area around the base and hear about the conspiracy theories that surround the place, head down Route 375, also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway; grab a bite to eat at the Little A’Le’Inn in the nearby town of Rachel; buy souvenirs at the Alien Research Center; and check for mail at the Black Mailbox.

Things to know before you go

• The deserts of southern Nevada can be relatively cold in winter and quite hot in the summer; make sure to dress accordingly. You’ll want hats and other forms of sun protection at any time of year.

• Obey all posted signs and do not trespass; those who get too close to the base can be subject to fines, jail time, or even lethal force.

• Photos of Area 51 are not permitted.

How to get there

Area 51 is located about 83 miles (134 kilometers) north-northwest of Las Vegas and can be visited on a day trip. The closest town is Rachel, Nevada. The facility can be approached from two directions: one near Rachel and the other about 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) down Groom Lake Road, at the base of Hancock Summit. You cannot get within 15 miles (24 kilometers) of the base.

When to get there

The Extraterrestrial Highway and other areas around Area 51 rarely get very busy. The weather in the winter can be relatively cold, and summer in the desert can be extremely hot and dry. Visit in the spring or summer for the most comfortable conditions.

Roswell

The town of Roswell, New Mexico, is another major focal point for UFO enthusiasts. In 1947, something that the military identified as a weather balloon crashed nearby during a thunderstorm. UFO enthusiasts believed the object was a “flying saucer,” and a variety of conspiracy theories surround the place to this day. Visit to learn about the Roswell incident and other UFO phenomena at the town’s International UFO Museum and Research Center.

Ways to explore

The Homey Airport base, an Air Force training range, is not accessible to visitors; you can’t buy Area 51 tickets that get you inside. However, to see the area around the base and hear about the conspiracy theories that surround the place, head down Route 375, also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway, either on your own or with a tour. In addition to staring at the forbidden desert, grab a bite to eat at the Little A’Le’Inn in the nearby town of Rachel, buy souvenirs at the Alien Research Center, and check for mail at the famed Black Mailbox.

Accessibility

Area 51 itself is a restricted military base that’s completely inaccessible to the public, including wheelchair users. Perimeter gates and nearby viewpoints along the Extraterrestrial Highway are technically accessible by vehicle, but expect dirt roads and zero facilities.

Age limits

A valid license is required for those exploring the ET Highway and beyond from the driver’s seat, but passengers of any age are welcome.

What to pack

Plenty of water, snacks, full tank of gas, spare tire, first-aid kit, sunscreen, camera, fully charged phone, maps downloaded before exploring

What to wear

Lightweight, breathable clothing; comfortable shoes; hat and sunglasses

Not allowed

Trespassing on government property, taking photos of security personnel or base facilities, drones

Amenities

None—come prepared to wander the desert.

Address 

Area 51's perimeter can technically be viewed from public roads, including from along Nevada State Route 375 (the Extraterrestrial Highway). The remote region is easiest to explore on your own or via guided tour.

Driving

The closest viewpoint is the "back gate" along Groom Lake Road, about 12 miles (19 kilometers) from the base—and about 3 hours from Vegas. It’s a dirt road, so you’ll want a vehicle you feel comfortable in.

Public transportation

No public transport options exist, but there are fun tours that take you around the area, along the ET Highway, to the various alien-themed stops, and more.

Best times to visit

Early morning and late afternoon both offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography—plus, you’ll want to avoid that stifling midday heat.

Best days to visit

Weekdays see fewer tourists at local hangouts than weekends, but the actual area around the base is never busy.

Best months to visit

Avoid June through August, when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (37ºC). Winters can get surprisingly cold, too.

Special events

NONE